Christie Centre to create new visitor experiences at Powerhouse

Published on 02 March 2023

Another high-profile element of the exciting Powerhouse precinct has been unveiled following today’s announcement that the Christie Centre will establish a visitor information centre within the precinct.

Councillor for Economic Development Stefano de Pieri said the Christie Centre’s social enterprise model would include a close partnership with the Mildura Visitor Information Centre, while introducing new experiences, products and services to the thriving riverfront precinct.

“Firstly, from a purely economic standpoint, the Christie Centre’s plans promise to be yet another powerful drawcard to our beautiful riverfront precinct among locals and visitors alike,” Cr de Pieri said.

“Based in the Powerhouse foyer, it will for the first time introduce features including a retail space showcasing local products, visitor information and creative and co-working spaces for the community to engage and participate in.

“It will also support Mildura’s tourism sector by serving as a source of local information, helping with bookings and attractions, as well as helping to promote events.

“However there are also a host of social and community benefits to flow from this project, including the opportunity for Christie Centre participants to develop new skills and employment, so it really is a win-win from both a social and economic perspective.”

Christie Centre Executive Officer Florence Davidson provided more detail on the Christie Centre’s plans and what they would mean for both the organisation and precinct.

“This amazing opportunity allows us to expand our social enterprise network and create a hub for emerging enterprises to have a space to showcase their goods and services,” Ms Davidson said.

“We are currently working on the operational plan and look forward to the opportunities we will soon be able to share to join us in this space.”

The Powerhouse precinct project continues a long-running relationship between Mildura Rural City Council and the Christie Centre, including a project last year when their artists from ArtRageUs completed an interactive tourist wall.

This led to a discussion regarding building on these skills to create tourist ambassadors and an opportunity to create an inclusive community space that supports other groups and individuals who are keen to further activate the riverfront precinct.

“I’d like to acknowledge the visionary thinking of Mildura Rural City Council to repurpose the Powerhouse precinct and to create an inclusive community space that encourages creativity, a strong sense of belonging and a showcase of opportunity,” Ms Davidson said.

Cr de Pieri said he looked forward to the Christie Centre’s plans taking shape and adding to the already innovative local businesses operating along the riverfront precinct.

ENDS